Ohio offers easy access to markets, a highly skilled workforce, low taxes on new capital investment and business-friendly political leadership throughout the state. Our six diverse, motivated economic regions offer a faster track for business formation, relocation or expansion. Ohio was recently ranked the most improved business climate in Chief Executive Magazine’s survey of CEO’s throughout the country. Here are just a few reasons why companies in Ohio are thriving.
Strong Business Climate
Keep More Revenue
Governor Kasich and the state legislature have worked hard to lower the tax burdens that can stand in the way of commercial progress. This includes no corporate income and franchise taxes, no taxes on new machinery and equipment, no out-of-state tax and bold job retention tax cedits. The result: Lower liabilities in investment, shipping, operating costs, and more.
We’ve never been more competitive.
Learn more about Ohio’s smarter approach to taxes.
Learn more about Ohio’s diverse industries.
Thrive in Ohio
Ohio is leading the nation's recovery
Thrive in Ohio celebrates the passion and innovation of Ohioans in their daily lives, at home and at work – key advantages for companies thinking about expanding or relocating here.
A recent Chief Executive Magazine CEO survey showed that Ohio has the most improved business climate in the nation. More evidence that businesses are thriving in Ohio.
Access to Markets
Move Parts and Products Faster
Ohio is recognized globally for its fast, effective routing of goods and services worldwide. We’re centrally located within 600 miles of 60% of the U.S. and Canadian population and Ohio’s logistical infrastructure is designed to move parts and products in and out remarkably fast. We’re home to five international airports and three major regional airports, and three air cargo hubs provide seamless air-to-rail, air-to-highway and air-to-water transport connectivity.
If you can create it, we can move it.
Learn more about Ohio’s logistics advantages.
Skilled Workforce
Improving Your Productivity in Ohio
Fifty-seven of the Fortune 1,000 list of largest U.S. companies are based in Ohio – The 5th in the nation. Ohio is home to nine major banks and insurance companies, second only to New York in terms of concentration in a single state. Ohio’s total labor pool is 5.9 million people and is home to some of the nation’s best universities, large and small. Our 200 institutions of higher learning are some of the best in the country.
The next generation of leaders, right here.
We have the people you need. Learn more about Ohio’s workforce.
Foreign-Trade Zones
Lower Cost of Import/Export
Ohio's 10 foreign-trade zones help companies reduce operating costs while increasing profits. Foreign goods may be admitted to an Ohio Foreign-Trade Zone without being subject to customs duties or other import-related taxes.
Industry Diversity and Massive GDP
Strength in Any Economy
We're the 8th largest source for GDP in the U.S. If Ohio were a separate country, it would be the 27th largest national economy in the world. Our economy is a cross-section of global activity, ranging from commercialized medical research to some of the world's largest fashion brands.
Livable, Affordable Cities
Large or Small, You'll Like It Here
We're one of the only states with three major cities (Columbus, Cleveland, and Columbus, with a combined metropolitan population of nearly 6 million), which offer low costs of living and a wealth of cultural, educational and recreational opportunities.
Strong Micropolitan Areas
A Unique Advantage
Ohio ranks first in the nation for number of attractive micropolitans for capital investment, according to a new report by Site Selection magazine, one of the nation's leading location assistance publications. Micropolitan areas offer high quality lifestyle with a lower cost of living. Your employees and leadership will experience better housing, shorter commutes, and easier access to all of life's necessities: healthcare, education, culture and entertainment. It's a significant advantage.
